At the heart of the cultural and economic wellbeing of East Belfast since 1935, the Strand is now playing an even more important role within the community. It is a not-for-profit registered charity and presents a diverse mix of new release and classic screenings, comedy, theatre, music and other live events that would not otherwise be staged in East Belfast.
We have had a busy first six years as an arts centre, but want to do even more… including the provision of regular skills development workshops for young people in film and music production, and weekly classic screenings for older audiences.
If you are thinking of making a charitable donation, please consider supporting our Silver Screenings, weekly classic movies for older audiences from East Belfast and beyond.
Since June 2017, we have provided 645 FREE taxis journeys to and from the Strand for 20 nursing homes and community groups. The project is supported by Specsavers Connswater and Arts & Business NI, but has become so successful that we cannot currently meet the demand for free transport. Please make a donation and help us to provide weekly taxis for those groups wishing to come to Strand Arts Centre.
“Many of our tenants would frequent the cinema in their youth and this is a lovely opportunity to relive this experience. Offering transport and tea and coffee is so welcoming. We look forward to seeing this continue especially as for many it’s a rare opportunity to go out. Even the drive up has become an experience as it has brought up memories of East Belfast for some of our tenants.” Paula Tabakin, Fairholme Nursing Home
“The residents of Towell House thoroughly enjoyed their first visit to the Silver Screenings show of ‘Calamity Jane’. A few were able to reminisce about their first time watching it years ago and it triggered fond memories for them. It also provided a refreshing afternoon out of the home for the residents and the feedback was all very positive.” Rachael, Towell House